The Actor's Honest Musical Selections: From Early Favorites to Unexplained Aversions
The initial track I became enamored with
My earliest recollection is stepping into a room at nursery school where they were playing Yellow Submarine by the Fab Four. I was mesmerized by the sonic landscape, and Lennon bellowing: “Full speed ahead!” When it got to the hook, I recall believing: “This must be music!”
The first record I purchased
When I was eight, I was victorious in a contest at school to select a new vinyl to play at the mini disco we had on Friday afternoons. My teacher took me to a local store, and I opted for Come Back My Love by Darts. The first single I purchased with my own savings was Mull of Kintyre by Wings from a music store in Colne. It was number one at the time, and I chose it when my dad noted that it was by a former member of the Beatles.
The song I do at karaoke
I frankly actively avoid karaoke and steer clear at all costs. But if I had to, I’d go with Summer Wind by Ol' Blue Eyes.
The track I inexplicably recite each line to
I not long ago became aware that I have memorized virtually every word to The Boy in the Bubble, You Can Call Me Al, and the entire album on Graceland by the legendary songwriter.
The best tune to put on at a party
It relies on which phase of the event you are at. Early doors it would likely be I Heard It Through the Grapevine by the soul legend. As the evening progresses, I’d work through Prince, the Stones and Bowie, and when it really kicks off, Phat Planet by Leftfield, Born Slippy .NUXX by the techno pioneers, and Ascension by Gorillaz, which is an undeniable hit.
The track I can no longer bear
I inexplicably detest Mr Brightside by the Killers.
The ideal track to get intimate to
Come Together by the Beatles.
The LP that transformed me
When I was 12 and just learning to study the six-string, I’d only listen to classic rock ’n’roll, and was obsessed with Elvis, the rock pioneer, the killer, Fats Domino, Buddy Holly and Eddie Cochran. Then my childminder introduced me to Let There Be Rock by AC/DC. It was still guitar music, but it was high voltage rock music. As soon as he dropped the vinyl on the turntable, I was captivated.
The tune that wakes me in the morning
What’d I Say in its full glory by Ray Charles.
The piece that gets me emotional
Most music leaves me touched. The Queen of Soul, Frank Sinatra, Elvis and the Fab Four all make me cry because of the tune and pure beauty of the voices. But The Ocean by Richard Hawley hits me hard consistently.
The music I’d like performed at my funeral
Elvis. If I’m cremated, I’ll have Burning Love. If I’m buried, I’ll have Way Down.